Cuba Seeks UN Debate on US Blockade, Cites Growing Humanitarian Crisis

July 7, 2026

Havana: Cuba has called for a debate at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) over the long-standing US blockade, arguing that the sanctions have created a severe humanitarian situation and pose an imminent threat to the island nation.

The debate, scheduled for Tuesday, will allow Havana to present its concerns over the impact of US economic restrictions and seek broader international support against the measures.

Cuba Says Situation Is No Longer Hypothetical

Speaking to reporters, Pedro Luis Pedroso, Director General of Multilateral Affairs and International Law at Cuba’s Foreign Ministry, said the request for a UN debate reflects the seriousness of the current situation.

He stressed that Cuba’s concerns are based on actual developments rather than hypothetical risks, describing the country’s challenges as an immediate consequence of US actions.

Pedroso said the debate would highlight what Cuba describes as increasingly aggressive measures by Washington, including what it views as the threat of direct military aggression.

Havana to Highlight Impact of US Sanctions

During the UNGA session, Cuba plans to outline the effects of tighter economic, trade and financial restrictions, particularly measures affecting fuel supplies to the island.

According to Cuban authorities, these sanctions have significantly worsened the country’s economic difficulties and amount to collective punishment that violates international humanitarian law and human rights.

Pedroso argued that restrictions on fuel shipments are, in practical terms, comparable to a naval blockade.

Fuel Sanctions Under Scrutiny

The Cuban official noted that the US administration imposed sanctions in January on countries supplying fuel to Cuba, a nation that relies heavily on imported oil.

He claimed the policy violates international legal norms, including rules governing armed conflicts, and has further complicated humanitarian conditions on the island.

Pedroso also criticised restrictions affecting humanitarian assistance, saying they form part of broader economic, political and information-related pressure on Cuba.

Cuba Calls for Respect of International Law

Reiterating Havana’s position, Pedroso said Cuba does not pose a threat to the United States and expressed hope that the UN General Assembly would hold a comprehensive discussion on the issue.

He urged member states to reaffirm the principles of the UN Charter, including sovereign equality, respect for territorial integrity, political independence, non-interference in internal affairs, rejection of the use of force, and the peaceful settlement of international disputes.